HC Deb 29 July 1980 vol 989 c1270
5. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will introduce a uniform occupational health provision to cover all staff employed in the National Health Service.

The Secretary of State for Social Services (Mr. Patrick Jenkin)

It is for health authorities themselves to determine what resources they will devote to occupational health services.

Mr. Pavitt

When will the Secretary of State stop subjecting nurses to delay and deferment because they are conciliatory and do not take industrial action? Negotiations on nurses' pay have been taking place for three years. Is it not a disgrace that whole areas of the country have no occupational provision for nurses in the Health Service? Will the Secretary of State take immediate action, and issue instructions or a circular to all the authorities concerned?

Mr. Jenkin

That would not be appropriate. Talks are being conducted on gradings and job descriptions for occupational health work. When those talks have been completed, and conclusions reached, I shall consider whether guidance is necessary on the scope and organisation of this service. It must be for employing health authorities to decide what proportion of their resources should be devoted to this service.

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